Social capital in Thai social enterprises and related communities

Abstract

© 2016 by De La Salle University. This study investigates elements of social capital in the Thai communities for social entrepreneurship and explores the characteristics and patterns of social capital mobilization through a survey of social enterprises. The study uses the qualitative approach based on cross-sectional data, non-participatory observation, focus group discussions, and semi-structured in-depth interviews. Representatives were taken from three social enterprises engaged in the business of hospitality, herbal products, and organic vegetables. The elements of social capital that emerged had two dimensions: the value-based and knowledge-based dimensions. The value-based dimension consisted of generosity, trust, harmony, industriousness, honesty, perseverance, and forgiveness, while the knowledge-based dimension involved learning ability, the ability to deliver knowledge, local wisdom, and the use of technology. The characteristics and patterns of social capital mobilization that emerged began from the categorization of related communities, the connection building through mediation, dialogue, trust in the social spirit of the communities, and the use of community capacity unto the generation of positive outcomes in those communities. All told, both social enterprises and the communities greatly benefited from the social capital generated.